It is old news now, but I want to weigh in on the Faith Forum hosted by pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church that both John McCain and Barack Obama participated in this past Saturday. Being one who cares deeply about matters of faith, I watched the entire event very carefully. I agree with the consensus that in terms of overall impact McCain kicked butt. Word is out today that he was not in a so-called "cone of silence" while Obama was being questioned as we had been told. I don't know if that is true or not, but he certainly made Obama look like an amateur in comparison as he fielded the same basic questions that Warren had first asked Obama.
Words the pundits have used to characterize McCain's performance are "clear" and "concise." McCain gave direct, "black and white" answers to questions about abortion and defeating evil among others, with but one exception. When Warren queried about what is rich, asking for a specific number, McCain gave a speech on prosperity ideals and then wisecracked that it is having $5 million or more. It was obvious he quickly wished he hadn't said that and tried to back pedal and make light of it. But he did say it, and in so doing he exposed his hand. His administration will continue the policies that favor the wealthy.
Obama gave a very troubling response when the question of abortion was raised. It was the one issue about which he made a clear and concise statement. He supports Roe vs. Wade. That's not news, but to so bluntly state it in that particular forum is a tough pill to swallow for many. One point Obama did make is worth noting. After 8 years of Republican administration, several of which with Republican majorities in Congress, the number of abortions being performed annually has not diminished. Being pro-life has to mean more than saying you philosophically oppose abortions. Could it be that Obama's stated objective of decreasing the number of abortions by means of education, better health care and strengthening the family (while not undoing Roe vs. Wade) could ultimately be more effective in reducing the number of abortions than the pro-life lip service approach of the Republicans?
My overall impression at the end of this particular event is that McCain came across as a man in charge. Obama did not. Stay tuned...
